Mexican bishops back final ruling on presidential elections

Mexico City, Mexico, Sep 8, 2006 / 12:00 am (CNA).- In a statement released on Thursday, the Bishops’ Conference of Mexico gave official recognition to the final ruling of the Federal Electoral Tribunal declaring the ruling party candidate Felipe Calderon the winner of the July 2nd elections.

“The bishops of Mexico join the citizens and institutions that support the actions and decisions of the Electoral Tribunal, and therefore we recognize the legality of the new president-elect, and we wish him success in his administration for the benefit of all Mexicans,” the statement indicated.

The bishops called on Mexicans to resolve their disagreements through dialogue in order to allow the new government to do its job and combat the social inequalities that result in widespread poverty.

They also reminded the incoming administration of its responsibility to fight against drug trafficking, corruption, and general lack of security in Mexico, as well as to avoid “actions that might motivate hatred, violence or division” while promoting “reconciliation, inclusion, respect for opponents and for those who exercise constructive, responsible and reasoned opposition.”

The bishops also insisted Mexicans contribute to fostering peace and work together with the government, “which cannot go it alone,” as it needs “the generous and fraternal collaboration of all Mexicans, of all political parties, of all leaders in society, placing aside personal or group interests in order to contribute to this great task.”